Anniversary of Poland Regaining Independance

To the President of the United States, Her Majesty’s Government, The Government of the French Republic, The Government of the Kingdom of Italy, The Government of the Empire of Japan, The Government of the German Republic and Governments of all belligerent and neutral States

As the Commander-in-Chief of the Polish Army, I hereby notify belligerent and neutral governments and nations of the existence of an Independent Polish State within all the territories of the united Poland. The political situation in Poland and the yoke of the occupation have so far made it impossible for the Polish nation to speak freely about their fate. Thanks to the changes caused by the great victories of the allied armies, the restoration of Poland’s independence and sovereignty has now become a fact.

The Polish State is formed upon the will of the whole nation and based on democratic foundations. The Polish Government will replace the rule of violence that hung over the country for a hundred and forty years with a system built on order and justice. Relying on the Polish Army under my command, I believe that no foreign army will from now on enter Poland before we express our formal stance on the case. I am convinced that the powerful Western democracies will offer help and brotherly support to the reborn and independent Republic of Poland.

Commander-in-Chief Piłsudski

In the name of the Minister of External Affairs Filipowicz

Warsaw, 16 November 1918

It is with these words that after WW1, Poland was able to regain it’s national independence after a long and tumultuous history of being controlled in part or entirely by neighboring nations and powers. This process was started on Nov the 11th by Marshal Józef Piłsudski, when he wrote the above letter to inform the world of Polands intentions. In modern times, we celebrate this historic moment with yearly celebrations in Warsaw’s Piłsudski Square. Overseen by the President, there is a parade of the nations troops that leads to the tomb of the unknown soldier, where a speech is given, and a wreath is placed to thank those who fought for our freedom. Join us this year as we celebrate the tenacity of the Polish spirit, and if you wish to learn more, check out the video below (Credit: Learn Polish Online – PolishPod101).